All over the Florida Keys, people are constructing costumes for their cats, dogs, parrots, potbellied pigs, rabbits and other domestic species. What’s behind this strange phenomenon? A wacky annual costume competition for critters, known as the Pet Masquerade, that’s a highlight of Key West’s 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration each October.
Thousands of costumed revelers will promenade through Key West's historic Old Town Oct. 26 during the offbeat Masquerade March, a highlight of the annual Fantasy Fest costuming and masking festival. Famed as “the locals’ parade,” the march typically draws spirited bands and merrymakers wearing everything from lavish feathered and sequined creations to quirky ensembles inspired by the festival theme.
The over-the-top Headdress Ball brings unmatched creativity and spectacular entries to the new Key West Amphitheater at Truman Waterfront Park. Featuring high-quality entertainment and glamorous flair, the gala is the leading LGBTQ event during the island’s fabulous Fantasy Fest masking and costuming festival — and it’s a can’t-miss treat.
Imagine savoring Key lime pie French toast for brunch. Or dining on braised beef rib gnocchi with vegetables, mushrooms and pecorino. Those are just two of the specialties at Key West's Azur Restaurant, where chefs/owners Drew Wenzel and Michael Mosi create delicious, innovative dishes inspired by their experiences throughout the world.
Through the Keys' new “Connect & Protect” program, visitors can help preserve the destination's priceless natural world while having meaningful and memorable vacations. The program spotlights eco-travel offerings, natural experiences, environmental attractions and adventures, simple pleasures and ways visitors can make a difference while exploring the islands from Key Largo to Key West.
From an island-style street party to an over-the-top headdress gala, Key West's fall schedule includes so many reasons to plan a southernmost escape. Don't miss the two-day Goombay Festival Oct. 19-20, celebrating Key West’s Bahamian heritage, or the dazzling 36th annual Headdress Ball on Oct. 25 featuring contestants’ flamboyant masks and outrageous headdress regalia.
Since Hurricane Irma crossed the Florida Keys on Sept. 10, 2017, the island chain has recovered, re-energized, refurbished and renewed elements impacted by the storm. Even so, some work remains — so today, on the one-year anniversary of Irma, we salute the strength and spirit of those who are still recovering. And we send heartfelt thanks to the visitors who have supported us by spending time in our islands during the past year.
In the Florida Keys, restaurants range from gourmet hotspots to dockside seafood “shacks” and trendy food trucks offering a wide variety of options. And while many great restaurants along the historic Florida Keys Overseas Highway provide tasty temptations, venturing into less-explored areas reaps mouthwatering rewards for diners. “Keys Voices” explores five places that should top any foodie’s “don’t-miss list.”
How does it feel to a have an up-close and personal encounter with two exotic pink flamingos? Nature lovers can find out during the exclusive “Flamingle” experience at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory — believed to be the only butterfly facility in the entire United States that also houses flamingos.
Key West’s Higgs Beach has been recognized as one of the world's 11 best gay beaches in a recent article in “Gay Cities: Your Gay Travel Guide.” Find out what makes it so appealing — and discover the sandy spot affectionately nicknamed Fort Liz Taylor Beach by the island’s gay community.